WEST SLOPE WATER DISTRICT Lead Service Line Inventory
About This Water System
West Slope Water District serves approximately 11,000 people in Oregon. The district sources its water from surface water (like rivers or lakes), which is treated before it reaches your home.
Lead Service Lines: What You Need to Know
A lead service line is the underground pipe that connects the water main in the street to your home. If your service line is made of lead, some lead can dissolve into your water—especially in the first seconds after you turn on a tap. This is a real health concern, particularly for young children and pregnant people.
Right now, West Slope Water District has not completed a full inventory of their service lines. This means the district hasn't yet documented which homes have lead, galvanized (steel), or non-lead pipes. This is not unusual—many water systems are still working through this process, which is required by federal law.
Getting Your Water Tested
You don't have to wait for the district's full inventory to protect your family. You can:
- Test your tap water for lead using an affordable lab or kit. Contact your local health department for approved testing options.
- Ask your water district whether they know the material of your service line. They may have partial records even if the full inventory isn't public yet.
- Check your home's age and plumbing records. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead service lines.
If your water test shows lead above 15 parts per billion (ppb)—the EPA's action level—contact your water district immediately and consider using filtered or bottled water for drinking and cooking until the issue is resolved.
Next Steps for Residents
- Contact West Slope Water District directly to ask about your service line material and whether they have a lead service line replacement program.
- Test your tap water if you have concerns, especially if you have young children at home.
- Visit the EPA's guide to lead in drinking water for more information and testing resources.
- If you have health concerns about lead exposure, speak with your pediatrician or contact the CDC.
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Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Contact your water utility—they may have records of your service line material. You can also check your home's age (pre-1986 homes are at higher risk) or hire a plumber to inspect the line where it enters your home. The pipe will be soft, dull gray, and easy to scratch with a coin.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Yes. Lead can harm brain development in young children and cause other health problems at any age. The CDC recommends special precautions for homes with children under 6 or pregnant people. Talk to your pediatrician or doctor about your specific situation.
What's the difference between a lead service line and lead in my pipes?
A lead service line is the main pipe from the street to your house; it's often the largest source of lead. Interior pipes, solder, and fixtures can also contain lead. Testing your water is the best way to know if lead is reaching your tap.
Can I remove a lead service line myself?
No—removal requires a licensed plumber and must be done properly to avoid contaminating soil and groundwater. Some water utilities offer rebates or programs to help with replacement costs. Contact West Slope Water District to ask about assistance.